10 Woodland garden bulbs

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​When the early spring finally arrives in the woodland garden it’s a signal for early woodland bulbs to sprout! Spring woodland bulbs take advantage of the early season sunshine before the leaf canopy opens out.

There is something magical about these small flowering plants emerging from the bare and lifeless soil. Woodland bulbs may not occupy borders very long however seasonally their impact is huge!

Flowering bulbs can kick off the growing season with some much awaited excitement and splendour! Every woodland garden border would not be the same without their carpet of seasonal colour!

​In this article I list and summarise 10 of the very best flowering bulbs for woodland gardens. 

​1. Snowdrops

​Also known by their Latin name ‘Galanthus’ these small perennial bulbs are native to Eurasia. They flower in late winter around February time and have nodding bell like shaped white flowers. These plants spread by bulb division and eventually establish colonies, these can form impressive carpets of white within the landscape. Snowdrops can make a real impact to woodland gardens and are pleasant sights marking the beginning of a new season. 

​2. Daffodil

​Daffodils are probably one of the most famous spring flowering bulbs of the Northern Hemisphere. Native to Europe and North Africa these flowers are recognised by their trumpet shaped corona and ring of outer petals. Although most common in their traditional colour of yellow they are also available in white, orange and pink. In woodland gardens they can provide endless charm and seasonal excitement. 

3. ​Crocus

​Crocus is a genus of flowering bulbs well known for their stunning flowers and thin, linear foliage. Native to Europe, North Africa and Asia this flower is typically planted within lawns and flower borders. The flowers normally have six petals and come in shades of purple, yellow and white. Crocus flowers are well known for being disproportionately larger blooms than leaves. This gives them an unusual but interesting appeal which adds impact to woodland borders. 

​4. Fritillaria

​Fritillaria are a genus of flowering plants well known for its impressive flowers and distinctive patterning. Native to North Africa, America and Europe these flowers come in a broad range of colours. Flower colours include shades of purple, yellow, orange and white adding drama to woodland borders. These flowers look very effective planted along the front of woodland garden borders. 

​5. Bluebells

​Also described by their latin name (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) blue bells are famous for their remarkable spring flowers. Native to the woodlands of Europe these flowers create carpets of colour throughout the month of April. During flowering they produce arching stems with drooping blue, purple and violet flowers. With a cultural significance in folklore and legend they make exciting additions to shaded woodland gardens. 

 6. Alliums

​Aliums are a unique genus of plants belonging to the onion family, including Garlic and Chives. These plants are famous for their very distinctive, spherical, flower heads. This characteristic has led many Alliums to being bred and hybridised for this specific trait. Many ornamental alliums flowers now come in a range of sizes and colours including; white pink, purple and yellow. Although alliums do prefer full sun they can do well in 50% shade making them fine for light woodland gardens. 

​7. Cyclamen 

​Native to Europe and the Mediterranean region Cyclamen are loved for their unusual flowers and decoratively marbled foliage. Cyclaman flowers come in shades of white, pink, purple and red and generally bloom in fall or late winter. They are perfectly happy growing within well drained woodland borders under a layer of mulch. When grown in multiple blocks they can add real colour and drama to dull, winter, woodland borders. 

​8. Liriope muscari

​Also known as Lilyturf or Liriope this flowering bulb is loved for its grass like foliage and spikes of purple-blue flowers. Native to East Asia this plant is both versatile and attractive within woodland borders. If planted in blocks it can provide a robust groundcover providing a good visual texture to borders. Liriope can tolerate a wide variety of growing conditions including particle shade and poor soil. Its dense ground foliage can also provide shelter for small insects and invertebrates boosting local ecology.  

​9. Iris reticulate

​Most commonly known as ‘Reticulated Iris’, this plant is very much a typical iris but in miniature. Originally from Iran, Turkey and the Caucases it is highly prized for its early season colour. Its flowers emerge in late winter and are capable of pushing through snow. It has a typical Iris flower but with a short rigid and erect stems and foliage. This iris has an interesting form making it look almost artificial but unique. In woodland gardens it can add beauty to seating areas and focal points. 

​10. Wood anemone 

​Wood anemones are small but charming perennial plants native to the woodlands of Europe and Asia. Also known by their Latin name (Anemone Nemorosa) they prefer woodland gardens with dappled shade and well drained soil.  They are much loved for their single star shaped flowers which bloom in spring. The flowers emerge before woodland trees leaf out providing early nectar for pollinators. This can provide crucial food to insects emerging from months of winter hibernation. 

​ Thank you for reading our article on the best bulbs for woodland gardens. Below I will link to more of our woodland garden articles you may find useful.  

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